After training for a couple of years, he achieved a personal best of 800 kg (1,764 lb) total (equipped/ multi ply category) at the age of 18.

[6] It gave Šmaukstelis the opportunity for international exposure, competing against the best strongmen in the world.

Having competed prolifically in the Strongman Champions League since 2014 throughout many Grand Prix competitions in Latvia, Germany, Netherlands, Finland, Norway, Serbia, Russia, Poland, Romania, Gibraltar, Bosnia and Herzegovina and England, Šmaukstelis won 15 international titles, 11 silver and 4 bronze medals.

[7] Together with a noteworthy grip strength, he is also noted for his prowess in distance and endurance based events.

[5] He also holds the Guinness World Records for the fastest 10 x kegs keg toss (18–25 kg) over a 15-foot bar in 21.02 seconds[8] and fastest 15 steps Power Stairs with 225 kg (496 lb).